Methods for reducing distal embolization

ABSTRACT

A method for reducing distal embolization during insertion of devices to treat plaque, thrombi and other intravascular occlusions. Using a guide catheter, a guidewire is delivered to a site proximal to the lesion. An aspiration catheter is then introduced over the guidewire, and the two are moved together in a distal to proximal direction across the occlusion. The aspiration catheter is then moved in a proximal to distal direction while continuously aspirating, which prevents embolization of any particles which may be created during the crossing of the guidewire.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 09/438,030, filed Nov. 10, 1999, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/049,857, filed Mar. 27, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,991, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 08/813,807, filed Mar. 6, 1997, now abandoned.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates generally to an improved method for reducing distal embolization during treatment of emboli, thrombi and other types of occlusions in the human arterial or venous system. The method is particularly well suited for use when treating stenoses or occlusions within saphenous vein grafts, coronary arteries, cerebral arteries and similar vessels.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0004] Human blood vessels often become occluded or completely blocked by plaque, thrombi, emboli or other substances, which reduces the blood carrying capacity of the vessel. Should the blockage occur at a critical location in the circulation, serious and permanent injury, or death, can occur. To prevent this, some form of medical intervention is usually performed when significant occlusion is detected, such as during an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

[0005] Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and a common occurrence worldwide. Damage to or malfunction of the heart is caused by narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis) that supply blood to the heart. The coronary arteries are first narrowed and may eventually be completely blocked by plaque, and may further be complicated by the formation of thrombi (blood clots) on the roughened surfaces of the plaques. AMI can result from atherosclerosis, especially from an occlusive or near occlusive thrombus overlying or adjacent to the atherosclerotic plaque, leading to death of portions of the heart muscle. Thrombi and emboli also often result from myocardial infarction, and these clots can block the coronary arteries, or can migrate further downstream, causing additional complications.

[0006] Various types of intervention techniques have been developed which facilitate the reduction or removal of the blockage in the blood vessel, allowing increased blood flow through the vessel. One technique for treating stenosis or occlusion of a blood vessel is balloon angioplasty. A balloon catheter is inserted into the narrowed or blocked area, and the balloon is inflated to expand the constricted area. In many cases, near normal blood flow is restored. It can be difficult, however, to treat plaque deposits and thrombi in the coronary arteries, because the coronary arteries are small, which makes accessing them with commonly used catheters difficult.

[0007] Other types of intervention include atherectomy, deployment of stents, introduction of specific medication by infusion, and bypass surgery. Each of these methods is not without the risk of embolism caused by the dislodgment of the blocking material which then moves downstream. In addition, the size of the blocked vessel may limit percutaneous access to the vessel.

[0008] There is a need for an improved method of reducing distal embolization during treatment of occluded vessels that can be performed regardless of the size of the blood vessel.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Described below is an improved method for preventing distal embolization during removal of plaque, thrombi or other occlusions from a blood vessel. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, aspiration is performed while advancing a guidewire across the site of the occlusion in a proximal to distal direction to prevent distal embolization. An aspiration catheter is delivered over the guidewire until the distal ends of the guidewire and aspiration catheter are just proximal to the site of the occlusion. While aspirating, the occlusion in the vessel is crossed with both the guidewire and the catheter in a proximal to distal direction. In a preferred embodiment, the distal tip of the aspiration catheter is no more than 2 cm, more preferably no more than 0.5-1 cm, behind or proximal to the distal tip of the guidewire during crossing. The distal end of the aspiration catheter is then moved back across the occlusion, while continuously aspirating, to ensure the removal of any particles which may be created during the delivery of the guidewire to a position distal to at least a portion of the occlusion. Aspiration from proximal to distal, and distal to proximal, can be repeated as many times as necessary to completely aspirate all particles. These steps are all performed prior to any occlusion of the vessel using an occlusive device at a site distal to the occlusion, and treatment of the occlusion, as described below.

[0010] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a guidewire having an occlusive device on its distal end is advanced across the occlusion such that the occlusive device is distal to the occlusion, where it is then actuated. An aspiration catheter is delivered over the guidewire to a location proximal to the occlusion. Delivery of the aspiration catheter can occur before or after actuation of the occlusive device. While the occlusive device is actuated, the distal end of the aspiration catheter is moved in a proximal to distal direction across at least a portion of the occlusion while aspirating at the same time. Alternatively, aspiration may begin after the distal end of the aspiration catheter is moved distal to at least a portion of the occlusion, and the aspiration catheter may be moved in a distal to proximal direction. Furthermore, regardless of whether aspiration begins proximal or distal to the occlusion, aspiration may continue in both proximal to distal and distal to proximal directions and repeated as necessary to completely aspirate particles.

[0011] The aspiration method disclosed herein can be used in any vessel of the body where the pressure is at least 0.2 psi at any time during the diastolic/systolic cycle of the heart, and, preferably, is about 1.2 psi, and is capable of providing a flow rate of at least 5 cc/minute when not occluded. Thus, although the pressure within any vessel may fall below 0.2 psi during relaxation between heartbeats, so long as the pressure created by the heartbeat rises to at least 0.2 psi, the pressure within the vessel will be sufficient.

[0012] The present method is particularly suited for use following myocardial infarction, and in removal of occlusions from saphenous vein grafts, coronary and carotid arteries, and vessels having similar pressures and flow.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, a guide catheter is first introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision made in the femoral artery in the groin and is used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices to the desired site. A guidewire is then advanced until its distal end reaches a site proximal to the occlusion. Fluoroscopy is typically used to guide the guidewire and other devices to the desired location within the patient. The devices are frequently marked with radiopaque markings to facilitate visualization of the insertion and positioning of the devices within the patient's vasculature.

[0014] In contrast to previous methods, in one embodiment the guidewire does not cross the occlusion prior to aspiration with an aspiration catheter or other suitable catheter which can provide aspiration pressure. Instead, an aspiration catheter is inserted over the guidewire and the two are concomitantly moved past the occlusion, proximal to distal, while aspirating, to prevent material which dislodges or breaks off the occlusion from entering the vasculature and producing distal emboli.

[0015] A guidewire having an occlusive device on its distal end is preferably used in the present method. The method can be effectively carried out, however, using a number of guidewires or catheters that perform the function of occluding the vessel and allowing for the slidable insertion of various other catheters and devices. A standard guidewire can also be used to initially cross the occlusion, and then exchanged with a guidewire having an occlusive device at its distal end. When the standard guidewire is used, it may also be delivered with the aspiration catheter so that both are moved past the occlusion while aspirating. The occlusive device should be capable of preventing the migration of particles and debris from the working area, either through total or partial occlusion of the vessel. The occlusion of the vessel need not be complete.

[0016] As the guidewire and aspiration catheter cross the occlusion, blood enters the vessel and keeps any particles dislodged during the procedure from flowing in a distal to proximal direction. In addition, the blood pressure and flow provides the irrigation necessary for aspiration.

[0017] After the distal end of the guidewire having an occlusive device is delivered past the site of the occlusion and aspiration is complete, the occlusive device is activated, preventing particles and debris from travelling downstream. Therapy can then be performed to remove or reduce the occlusion. A therapy catheter can be used if desired. The therapy catheter can be any of a number of devices, including a balloon catheter used to perform angioplasty, a catheter which delivers a stent, a catheter for delivering enzymes, chemicals, or drugs to dissolve and treat the occlusion, an atherectomy device, or a laser or ultrasound device used to ablate the occlusion. Alternatively, the therapy catheter can be eliminated and use of the guide catheter or the aspiration catheter alone can be used to aspirate the occlusion. This method is especially useful to remove emboli from the coronary arteries following acute myocardial infarction, because the aspiration catheter can be made small enough to enter the coronary arteries.

[0018] Once the desired therapy is performed, the therapy catheter is withdrawn from the patient's body and the aspiration catheter can once again be delivered over the guidewire if desired to remove any particles or debris created during therapy.

[0019] The method described herein provides an improved method for reducing distal embolization during treatment of emboli, thrombi and other types of occlusions in the human arterial or venous system, and is especially useful following myocardial infarction.

[0020] Further aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the drawings referenced herein, the invention not being limited to any particular embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a syringe assembly having features in accordance with the present invention and operably coupled to an illustrative inflation adapter at a proximal portion of a balloon catheter.

[0022]FIG. 2 is a side view of a balloon catheter of the present invention.

[0023]FIG. 3A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a balloon catheter incorporating a multiple tapered core wire.

[0024]FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of the proximal end of the balloon of FIG. 3A.

[0025]FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of an introducer arrangement including a protective sheath assembly to introduce a catheter with a balloon into a blood vessel.

[0026]FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of the protective sheath assembly of FIG. 4.

[0027]FIG. 6 is an enlargement of the transition section of the protective sheath assembly of FIG. 5 as indicated by line 6-6.

[0028]FIGS. 7A AND 7B show the open and closed low profile catheter valve positions, respectively.

[0029]FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the catheter valve and balloon catheter of FIG. 1 placed within an open inflation adapter.

[0030]FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of an inflation adapter having a catheter valve and balloon catheter placed therewithin.

[0031] FIGS. 10 AND 11 show alternative connections of a low volume syringe having features in accordance with the present invention.

[0032]FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal axis of a preferred embodiment of the low-volume syringe of the present invention.

[0033]FIG. 13 shows an end view of the low-volume syringe of FIG. 12.

[0034]FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of a low-volume syringe having features in accordance with the present invention.

[0035] FIGS. 15-18 are cross-sectional views showing the syringe of FIG. 14 in various stages of operation.

[0036]FIG. 19 is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of an integrated inflation/deflation syringe having features in accordance with the present invention.

[0037]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the syringe of FIG. 19.

[0038]FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of yet another embodiment of the low-volume syringe having features in accordance with the present invention.

[0039]FIGS. 22 and 23 are cross-sectional views of the syringe of FIG. 21, showing a syringe plunger engaged with a lock tab.

[0040]FIG. 24 is a plan view of a lock body installed on the syringe of FIG. 21, showing a lock tab in a thread-engaging position.

[0041]FIG. 25 is a plan view of the lock body of FIG. 28, showing the lock tab in an unlocked position relative to the plunger.

[0042] FIGS. 26-27 are cross-sectional views of the syringe of FIG. 21, showing the plungers disengaged from the thread tab.

[0043]FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an integrated inflation/deflation syringe having features in accordance with the present invention.

[0044] FIGS. 29-31 are cross-sectional views showing the syringe of FIG. 28 in various operational stages.

[0045]FIG. 32 is an end view of a detent mechanism for use with the syringe of FIG. 28.

[0046]FIG. 33 shows an alternative syringe assembly;

[0047]FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an integrated inflation/deflation device having features in accordance with the present invention;

[0048]FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 34, shown operably coupled to an illustrative inflation adapter and a proximal portion of a balloon catheter;

[0049]FIG. 36 is a side view of a syringe assembly portion of the device of FIG. 34;

[0050]FIG. 37 is a top view of the device of FIG. 34;

[0051]FIG. 38 is a left side view of the device of FIG. 34;

[0052]FIG. 39 is a right side view of the device of FIG. 34;

[0053]FIG. 40 is a front view of the device of FIG. 34;

[0054]FIG. 41 is an inside view of the right housing of the device of FIG. 34;

[0055]FIG. 42 is an inside view of the left housing of the device of FIG. 34;

[0056]FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 37, taken along lines 43-43;

[0057]FIG. 44 is a cut-away view of the device of FIG. 43, taken along lines 44-44;

[0058]FIG. 45 is an exploded perspective view of another preferred embodiment of an integrated inflation/deflation device having features in accordance with the present invention;

[0059]FIG. 46 is an exploded perspective view of a knob assembly for use with the device of FIG. 45;

[0060]FIG. 47 is a top view of the device of FIG. 45;

[0061]FIG. 48 is a side view of the device of FIG. 45, with a portion of the housing removed;

[0062]FIG. 49 is a top plan view of an inflation syringe plunger adapted for use with the device of FIG. 45;

[0063]FIG. 50 is a partially cutaway detailed side view of an inflation barrel of the device of FIG. 45;

[0064]FIG. 51 is an exploded perspective view of a reservoir syringe plunger for use with the device of FIG. 45.

[0065] FIGS. 52A-H are partial cross-sectional views of the movement of a guidewire and an aspiration catheter in a totally occluded blood vessel, placement of an occlusive balloon, and treatment of the occlusion.

[0066] FIGS. 53A-G are partial cross-sectional views of the movement of a guidewire and an aspiration catheter in a partially occluded blood vessel, placement of an occlusive balloon, and treatment of the occlusion.

[0067] FIGS. 54A-54F are partial cross-sectional views of the movement of a guidewire with an occlusive balloon and an aspiration catheter in a partially occluded blood vessel.

[0068]FIG. 55 is a side elevational view partially in section showing a catheter apparatus or assembly of the present invention for treating occluded vessels;

[0069]FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 56-56 of FIG. 55;

[0070]FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 57-57 of FIG. 55;

[0071]FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 58-58 of FIG. 55;

[0072]FIG. 59 is a schematic illustration of how the catheter apparatus shown in FIG. 55 is deployed in a carotid artery;

[0073] FIGS. 60A-60E are illustrations showing the various steps utilized in deployment of the catheter apparatus in performing the method of the present invention in a vessel where a bifurcation is not present.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0074] The present invention involves a method for advancing a guidewire into position in the vasculature of a patient prior to therapy on plaque, a thrombus, emboli, or other occluding substance. The preferred devices used during the method will be described first, followed by a description of the preferred method of use.

I. Overview of Occlusion System

[0075] A. Syringe Assembly

[0076] The preferred embodiments of the present invention may comprise or be used in conjunction with a syringe assembly such as that generally illustrated in FIG. 1. Also shown in FIG. 1 is an illustrative connection of the syringe assembly 50 to an occlusion balloon guidewire catheter 70 utilizing an inflation adapter 54. The syringe assembly 50, comprising the inflation syringe 60 and a larger capacity or reservoir syringe 62, is attached via tubing 64 to the inflation adapter 54 within which a low profile catheter valve 66 and the balloon catheter 70 are engaged during use.

[0077] The catheter valve 66, described in more detail below in connection with FIGS. 7A and 7B, is attached to an open proximal end of the catheter 70. The low volume syringe 60 is used to inject inflation fluid through the adapter 54 and valve 66 into a lumen of the hollow catheter 70, and into the balloon 72. The inflation adapter 54, described in more detail below in connection with FIG. 8, is used to open and close the valve 66 to regulate the inflation of the balloon 72 mounted on the distal end of the catheter 70. Nevertheless, it will be emphasized that other types of adapters and/or valves can be employed with the inflation syringe and/or syringe assembly described herein, in order to achieve rapid and accurate inflation/deflation of medical balloons or other non-balloon medical devices. Therefore, although the present inflation is illustrated in connection with a low volume occlusion balloon 72, other types of balloons and non-balloon devices can benefit from the advantages of the inflation described herein.

[0078] The balloon 72 is mounted on a distal end of a hollow guidewire 70 which defines the inflation lumen for the balloon 72, and the syringe 60 and/or syringe assembly 50 is connected at the proximal control end 33 of the guidewire 70. Prior to use of the low volume syringe 60 to inflate the balloon 72 to the proper size for the vascular segment to be treated, the guidewire 70 and balloon 72 are first “primed” or evacuated. The reservoir syringe 62 of the assembly 50 may be used for the evacuation.

[0079] B. Occlusion Balloon Guidewire

[0080] The occlusion balloon/guidewire system generally illustrated in FIG. 1 performs the function of occluding a vessel and allowing for the slidable insertion or advancement of various other catheters and devices. The term “catheter” as used herein is therefore intended to include both guidewires and catheters with these desired characteristics. The term “occlusion” refers to both partial and total occlusion of a vessel.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 2, a balloon guidewire catheter 70 generally comprises an elongate flexible tubular body 80 extending between a proximal control end 82, corresponding to a proximal section of the tubular body 80, and a distal functional end 84, corresponding to a distal section of tubular body 80. Tubular body 80 has a central lumen 86, which extends between ends 82 and 84. An inflation port 90 is provided on tubular body 80 near the proximal end 82. Inflation port 90 is in fluid communication with lumen 86 such that fluid passing through inflation port 90 into or out of lumen 86 may be used to inflate or deflate an inflatable balloon 72 in communication with lumen 86. Further details are disclosed in assignee's co-pending application entitled LOW PROFILE CATHETER VALVE AND INFLATION ADAPTER, application Ser. No. 08/975,723, filed Nov. 20, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,050,972, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0082] The length of tubular body 80 may be varied considerably depending on the desired application. For example, when catheter 70 serves as a guidewire for other catheters in a conventional percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty procedure involving femoral artery access, tubular body 80 is comprised of a hollow hypotube having a length in the range from about 160 to about 320 centimeters, with a length of about 180 centimeters being optimal for a single operator device, or 300 centimeters for over the wire applications. Alternatively, for a different treatment procedure not requiring as long a length of tubular body 80, shorter lengths of tubular body 80 may be provided.

[0083] Tubular body 80 generally has a circular cross-sectional configuration with an outer diameter within the range from about 0.008 inches to 0.14 inches. In applications where catheter 70 is to be used as a guidewire for other catheters, the outer diameter of tubular body 80 ranges from 0.010 inches to 0.038 inches and preferably is about 0.014 to 0.020 inches in outer diameter or smaller. Noncircular cross-sectional configurations of lumen 86 can also be adapted for use with the catheter 70. For example, triangular, rectangular, oval and other noncircular cross-sectional configurations are also easily incorporated for use with the present invention, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art. The tubular body 80 may also have variable cross-sections.

[0084] The tubular body 80 has sufficient structural integrity or “pushability” to permit catheter 70 to be advanced through the vasculature of a patient to distal arterial locations without buckling or undesirable kinking of tubular body 80. It is also desirable for the tubular body 80 to have the ability to transmit torque such as in those embodiments where it may be desirable to rotate tubular body 80 after insertion into a patient. A variety of biocompatible materials known by those of skill in the art to possess these properties and to be suitable for catheter manufacture may be used to produce tubular body 80. For example, tubular body 80 may be made of a stainless steel material such as ELGILOY™, or may be made of polymeric material such as PEEK, nylon, polyimide, polyamide, polyethylene or combinations thereof. In one preferred embodiment, the desired properties of structural integrity and torque transmission are achieved by forming the tubular body 80 out of an alloy of titanium and nickel, commonly referred to as nitinol. In a more preferred embodiment, the nitinol alloy used to form the tubular body 80 is comprised of about 50.8% nickel and the balance titanium, which is sold under the trade name TINEL™ by Memry Corporation. It has been found that a catheter tubular body having this composition of nickel and titanium exhibits an improved combination of flexibility and kink resistance in comparison to other materials. Other details regarding construction of catheter 70 may be found in assignee's copending applications entitled HOLLOW MEDICAL WIRES AND METHODS OF CONSTRUCTING SAME, application Ser. No. 08/812,876, filed Mar. 6, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,068,623, SHAFT FOR MEDICAL CATHETERS, application Ser. No. 09/026,105, filed Feb. 19, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,228,072, and FLEXIBLE CATHETER, application Ser. No. 09/253,591, filed Feb. 22, 1999, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0085] As illustrated in FIG. 2, an expandable member such as inflatable balloon 72 is mounted on the distal end 84 of tubular body 80. In one preferred embodiment, balloon 72 is a compliant balloon formed of a material comprising a block polymer of styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS), as disclosed in assignee's copending application entitled BALLOON CATHETER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE, application Ser. No. 09/026,225, filed on Feb. 19, 1998, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. The balloon 72 may be secured to the tubular body 80 by any means known to those skilled in the art, such as adhesives or heat bonding. For example, for attachment of a SEBS balloon to a nitinol tube, a primer such as 7701 LOCTITE (TM) by Loctite Corporation is preferably used along with cyanoacrylate adhesive such as LOCTITE-4011.

[0086] The balloon 72 described in the preferred embodiments preferably has a length of about 5 to 9 mm and more preferably about 6-8 mm. Other expandable members are suitable for the catheter 70, such as those disclosed in assignee's copending application entitled OCCLUSION OF A VESSEL, application Ser. No. 09/026,106, filed Feb. 19, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,312,407, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0087] With next reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a core wire 140 is provided inside the lumen 86. Coils 132 extend from the distal end of the balloon 72, surround the core wire 130, and terminate in a distal ball 134. In one embodiment, the core wire may have one or more tapers, and can extend proximally into tubular body 80. Other details regarding the core wire are discussed in assignee's copending application entitled CATHETER CORE WIRE, Ser. No. 09/253,971, filed Feb. 22, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,355,016, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0088] In one embodiment, shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the tubular body 80 preferably has cuts 140 to create a coiled configuration. A sleeve 142 is preferably provided over the tubular body 80. Adhesive stops 144 and 146 are provided about 1-2 mm from the ends of the balloon, as described above, to control the wicking length of the adhesive 148 into the balloon working area. Balloon inflation is provided through the cuts 140 in the tubular body 80. A marker 150 is mounted to the tubular body 80 proximal of the balloon 72. Adhesive tapers 152A, 152B and 154 are provided adjacent the balloon 72 to provide a transition region between the tubular body 80 and balloon 72 at the balloon's proximal end 72A and between the balloon 72 and the core wire 328 at the balloon's distal end 72B. Other details regarding this balloon catheter may be found in assignee's above-referenced copending application FLEXIBLE CATHETER.

[0089] C. Introducer Arrangement

[0090] The catheter 70 and balloon 72 assembly preferably access the vascular site through a port in the patient obtained, for example, using an introducer arrangement 200, as depicted in FIG. 4. As shown, a guide catheter 202 is inserted into a blood vessel 204 through an optional arterial sheath 206. The arterial sheath 206 is inserted into the blood vessel through the skin 208. A Y-adaptor 210 is connected to the proximal end of the guiding catheter 202. A hemostasis valve or a Touhy-Borst valve is installed within the Y-adaptor to prevent blood flow. A protective sheath assembly 212 accommodates the distal end of the catheter 70, including a surgical balloon 72, within the assembly. The protective sheath assembly 212 is then inserted into the Y-adaptor 210 with the distal end of the assembly 212 passing the hemostasis valve mounted in the Y-adaptor 210. As known in the art, the hemostasis valve maintains a tight seal around the protective sheath assembly 212 in order to prevent blood under arterial pressure from bleeding through the valve.

[0091] Referring also to FIG. 5, the protective sheath assembly 212 has three major parts: a protective sheath 220, a female luer lock 222, and a strain-relief tubing 224. The protective sheath 220 has an elongated tubular body 226 defining an elongated lumen 230 along a longitudinal axis 232.

[0092] The lumen 230 can be further divided into two portions, the proximal portion 230 b starting from the proximal end 234 and the distal portion 230 a starting from the distal end 236 and extending over a relatively large part of the protective sheath 220.

[0093] The dimension of lumen 230 at the proximal portion 230 b may vary depending on the outer diameter of the guidewire to be used. The inner diameter and the length of the proximal portion 230 b of lumen 230 is designed so that the guidewire can be moved smoothly through the lumen 230 while providing a good seal between the guidewire and the lumen 230 so as to prevent, or minimize, back flow of blood under arterial pressure. The dimension of the distal portion 230 a of lumen 230, including the length and the inner diameter, may vary depending on the sizes of the balloon. However, the distal portion 230 a should be large enough to accommodate and protect the balloon, as well as the soft tip of a balloon catheter, or other fixed wire devices.

[0094]FIG. 6 illustrates a broken side cross-sectional view of the sheath assembly of FIG. 5 and further illustrates, in dotted lines, a catheter 70 positioned within the lumen 230 of the protective sheath 220. Specifically, the catheter 70 comprises a guidewire extending from the proximal end 234 of the sheath 220 and toward the distal end 236. The medical balloon 72, which is mounted on the distal end of the catheter 70, is housed protectively within the distal portion 230 a of the sheath 220. It will be noted that the guidewire 70 is housed snugly in the proximal portion 230 b of the lumen in order to prevent or at least minimize back blood flow under arterial pressure. The longitudinal position of the balloon is not particularly important so long as it is protectively contained within the lumen 230 a.

[0095] In a method of the present invention, the proximal end of the guidewire is loaded into the sheath 220 beginning at the distal end 236. This loading is facilitated by a transition section 240, as illustrated in FIG. 5, located between the distal section 230 a and the proximal section 230 b of the lumen 230. This lumen transition 240 between the proximal portion 230 a and the distal portion 230 b should be smooth to assist the loading of a balloon guidewire.

[0096] Further details and alternative preferred embodiments of introducer arrangements that may be used in conjunction with the present invention are described in assignee's co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 09/047,303, filed on Mar. 24, 1998, entitled MEDICAL WIRE INTRODUCER AND BALLOON PROTECTIVE SHEATH, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,997,562, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety

[0097] D. Low Profile Catheter and Inflation Adapter

[0098] Referring again to FIG. 1, the syringe assembly 50 is connected to the occlusion balloon guidewire catheter 70 utilizing an inflation adapter 54. The balloon guidewire catheter 70 has a side-access inflation port 90 and a low profile catheter valve 66 attached to its proximal end (see FIGS. 7A and 7B).

[0099] In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the low profile catheter valve 66 comprises a movable sealer portion 110 attached at a distal end of a wire segment 112 and positioned within the inflation lumen 86 of the guidewire catheter 70. The wire 112 may be secured to a spring just within a proximal opening of the catheter 70. It will be noted that various spring or biasing arrangements may be utilized, including a zig-zag wire 114 which is formed on or replaces the wire segment 112 and which provides biasing force to the sealer portion 110 due to frictional engagement with the walls of the lumen 86. The sealer portion 110 forms a fluid tight seal with the inflation lumen 86 by firmly contacting the entire circumference of a section of the inflation lumen 86. The sealer portion 110 may be positioned proximally of the side-access inflation port 90 on the catheter as shown in FIG. 7A, to establish an unrestricted fluid pathway between the inflation port 90 and the inflatable balloon on the distal end. As desired, the clinician may move the sealer portion 110 to a position at or distal of the inflation port 90, as shown in FIG. 7B, thereby preventing any fluid from being introduced into or withdrawn from the lumen 86 via the inflation port 90. The valve 66 is considered “low profile” because it is no larger in cross-sectional diameter than the catheter 70 itself. The low profile catheter valve 66 is described in more detail in the above-referenced application LOW PROFILE CATHETER VALVE AND INFLATION ADAPTER.

[0100] As discussed above with reference to FIG. 1, the inflation port 90, proximal end of the catheter 70 and distal end of the valve 66 are positioned within the inflation adapter 54 (see FIG. 8), to which the syringe assembly 50 is operably coupled via tubing 64. The syringe 60 is used to inject inflation fluid through the adapter 54 and valve 66 into the lumen 86 of the hollow catheter 70, and into the balloon 72. The inflation adapter 54 is used to open and close the valve 66 to regulate the inflation of the balloon 72.

[0101] Referring next to FIG. 8, the inflation adapter 54 comprises a housing having two halves 94, 96 preferably formed of metal, medical grade polycarbonate, or the like. The halves 94, 96 are attached by hinges 98 to be separated or joined in a clam shell manner. A locking clip 100 secures the halves while the adapter 54 is in use. A groove 97 and clips 99 within the housing accept and securely hold the catheter 70 in a correct position. The male luer member 92 (FIG. 1) or another suitable connector, extends from a top of the housing to provide an inflation passageway. Seals 102 are provided within the housing and around an internal segment 104 of the inflation pathway to conduct the pressurized fluid provided by the syringe assembly 50.

[0102] An actuator 118, shown in FIG. 1 at the top of the adapter housing 94, controls a cam which operates sliding panels 120 (FIG. 8) contained in the housing. Preferably, the catheter 70 is positioned within the housing with the valve closed (FIG. 7B), such that the side inflation port 90 is located in the sealed inflation area 104 of the housing. The catheter 70 is then positioned in the second half 96 of the adapter 54. A distal portion of the catheter 70 extends out of the housing and into the patient, and a proximal portion of the catheter including the catheter valve 66 extends out of the other side of the adapter 54. The adapter is closed, the locking clip 100 is secured, and the syringe assembly 50 attached. The actuator 118 is moved from a first position to a second position, such that the sliding panels 120 within the housing cause the valve 66 to be in an open position to allow fluid flow through the inflation port 90 (FIG. 7A). The syringe assembly 50 is then used to inflate the balloon 72. Closing the valve 66 is accomplished by moving the actuator 118 from the second position back to the first position (FIG. 7B), such that the balloon inflation is maintained.

[0103] Other inflation adapter/inflation syringe assemblies may also be used. For instance, as shown in FIG. 9, the sliding panels 120 and sealer portion 104 of the adapter 54 may be arranged somewhat differently than shown in FIG. 8. Also, the adapter 54 can have additional features, such as a safety lock provided on the actuator knob 70 to prevent accidental opening when the adapter is being used and the catheter valve is open. In addition, the adapter can be provided with an overdrive system to overdrive a sealing member into a catheter. Details of these features and other inflation assemblies may be found in assignee's copending applications LOW PROFILE CATHETER VALVE AND INFLATION ADAPTER, referenced above, SYRINGE AND METHOD INFLATING LOW PROFILE CATHETER BALLOONS, application Ser. No. 09/025,991, filed Feb. 19, 1998, now abandoned, and LOW VOLUME SYRINGE AND METHOD FOR INFLATING SURGICAL BALLOONS, application Ser. No. 09/195,796, filed Nov. 19, 1998, now abandoned, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0104] Other connectors or fittings, such as tubing, quick connects and Y-connectors, may also be used in conjunction with an inflation/deflation device having features in accordance with the present invention according to the particular application and available supply of equipment, as shown. In FIG. 10, for example, the inflation syringe 60 is connected via an injection cap 122 directly to the guidewire 70 to allow inflation of the balloon 72 on the catheter. In FIG. 11, the inflation syringe 60 is connected via a short tubing 124 to a connector 126 which is in turn in fluid communication with the catheter 70. Thus, a variety of inflation devices and techniques are available in connection with the inflation syringe 60 of the present invention.

[0105] Further details regarding the occlusion system and its use are disclosed in assignee's copending applications entitled ASPIRATION CATHETER, application Ser. No. 09/026,013, filed Feb. 19, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,909, and EXCHANGE METHOD FOR EMBOLI CONTAINMENT, application Ser. No. 09/049,712, filed Mar. 27, 1998, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

II. Low Volume Syringe

[0106] An embodiment of a low volume syringe 60 is shown schematically in FIG. 12. The type or size illustrated is a 0.5 cc tuberculin syringe, although other size syringes having capacity ranging between about 0.02 cc to 1.0 cc may be used. More preferably, the capacity of the low volume syringe is between about 0.25 to 0.50 cc. The resultant displacement required for delivery of about 0.1 cc of fluid is about 10 mm for a 0.25 cc syringe. Indicia 164 may be provided along the length of the exterior surface of a cylinder 166 for visual aid of the clinician during use. Nevertheless, as described below in more detail, a mechanism is advantageously provided on the syringe 160 in order to accurately gauge the inflation fluid intake and expulsion as well as regulate the speed and pressure of fluid injection, thereby providing a means for the clinician to safely and accurately perform the desired procedure.

[0107] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the cylindrical body 166 of the syringe 160 comprises a stop or flange 168 extending radially outward at a proximal end and preferably being attached at a distal end to an injection cap 170. The distal end of the cylinder 166 has a nose portion 172 with a reduced diameter for connection with the injection cap 170. A plunger 174 has a shaft 176 of appropriate length and a resilient piston 178 attached at its distal end. The shaft 176 is inserted in a central lumen 179 of the cylinder and the piston 178 provides sealing engagement with the inner surface of the cylinder 166. The plunger 174 has a disk 58 at the proximal end of the shaft 176 for operation of the plunger 174. A preferred source for unmodified, conventional syringes is Becton Dickinson & Co. of Franklin Lakes, N.J.

[0108] The injection cap 170 preferably comprises a modified female member of a luer type connector. A first end 182 of the cap has a proximal wall with an aperture corresponding to the outer diameter of the cylinder 166, and a distal wall having an aperture corresponding to the outer diameter of the nose 172. These apertures are used to mount the injection cap 170 on the syringe 60. A threaded second end 184 of the cap can be screwed onto a male luer member, as in the example of FIG. 1. Alternatively, a tubular segment 188 within the second end 184 of the cap may be directly attached to the control end of the guidewire 70 using a sleeve 190, as with FIG. 10. Other suitable cap configurations may also be used to facilitate coupling of the syringe to a guidewire or catheter to provide inflation of the balloon. One preferred source of the cap is Medical Disposables International, Inc. of West Conshohocken, Pa.

[0109] Another preferred embodiment of the low volume syringe is shown in FIGS. 14-18. The low-volume syringe 260 preferably has a capacity ranging between about 0.1 cc and about 10 cc, and more preferably a capacity between about 0.2 cc and about 2 cc. The syringe 260 includes an elongated hollow body or barrel 264 which is preferably generally cylindrical, but the body can have any desired shape or cross-section. The body 264 has a distal end 268 with an attachment portion 270 which can be connected to various medical components such as a catheter. The attachment portion 270, for example, may include a nose 272, an injection cap 274 and internal threads 276, but it will be understood that the attachment portion can include any type of known connector to attach the syringe 260 to various types of medical components or instruments. The body 264 also includes a proximal end 280 with a flange 282 and an opening 284. The opening 284 is preferably circular and generally aligned with a longitudinal axis extending through the center of the body 264. The stop 282 also includes a radially outwardly extending annular ridge 288. The ridge 288 preferably extends outwardly about {fraction (1/16)} of an inch from the body 264 and the ridge preferably has a length of about ¼ of an inch, but the ridge can have any desired dimensions and configuration.

[0110] With continued reference to FIGS. 14-18, the syringe 260 includes a plunger 290 which is sized and dimensioned to be at least partially positioned within the elongated body 264. The plunger 290 includes an elongated shaft 292 which is generally circular in cross-section and is preferably constructed from material such as plastic and composites. The plunger 290 includes a distal end 294 which is positioned near the distal end 268 of the body 264 and a proximal end 296 which is positioned near the proximal end 280 of the body. The distal end 294 of the plunger 290 includes a piston 300 with a center section 302 and two outwardly extending annular flanges 304 and 306, respectively. The annular flanges 304 and 306 extend outwardly and slidably engage the inner wall of the elongated body 264 to create a fluid-tight seal with the elongated body. The piston 300 is preferably constructed from a resilient material such as rubber, but it can be constructed from any material which is suitable for its intended purpose. It will be understood that the piston 300 may have any desired size and/or configuration.

[0111] The plunger shaft 292 is generally cylindrical and has an annular notch 310 formed therein at a distance from the piston 300 of the shaft. A C-clip 312 is adapted to fit into the notch 310 and is sized to extend annularly outwardly from the shaft 292, effectively creating a ridge encircling the shaft. A length of the shaft near the proximal end is split into two shaft legs 314, 316. A collapsible chamber 320 is defined between the legs 314, 316. Threads 322 are formed about the outer circumference of the legs 314, 316.

[0112] A hollow plunger guide 324 has a neck portion 326 formed at its distal end and is adapted to fit complementarily into the proximal opening 284 of the body. The plunger guide 324 is generally cylindrical and has threads 328 formed on its inner surface. The inner threads 328 of the plunger guide 324 are adapted to engage the outer threads 322 of the plunger legs 314, 316 so that the plunger 290 may be threaded within the plunger guide 324. As the plunger 290 is rotated, the threads 322, 328 interact to advance or retract the plunger 290 within the syringe body, depending on the direction of rotation. The inner diameter of the hollow plunger guide's distal neck 326 is less than the diameter of the plunger's clip 312. As such, the C-clip 312 cannot fit through the plunger guide neck 326. Instead, retraction of the plunger 290 from the barrel 264 is stopped when the C-clip 312 contacts the plunger neck portion 326.

[0113] Continuing with FIGS. 14-18, the proximal end 296 of the plunger 290 includes a handle 330 comprising a generally circular disk 332 that is mounted to the end of the shaft 292. The disk 332 preferably has ridges 334 formed along an edge thereof, a diameter of about 1 inch, and a thickness of about ⅛ of an inch so that the clinician can easily grasp and rotate the handle 330. However, the disk 332 can be larger or smaller and it can have any desired shape such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0114] A plunger actuator 340 comprises a shaft 342 with a head 344 formed at its distal end and a tab 346 formed at its proximal end. The plunger actuator shaft 342 is adapted to fit through a hole 348 formed in the handle 330 of the plunger 290 and the head 344 is positioned within the collapsible chamber 320. A spring 350 is disposed within the collapsible chamber 320 between the plunger actuator head 344 and a distal end 352 of the collapsible chamber 320. The spring 350 biases the plunger actuator 340 in a proximal direction. The plunger actuator shaft 342 includes an annular protrusion 354 which contacts the plunger handle 330 to stop the plunger actuator 340 from being pushed by the spring 350 out of the collapsible chamber 320. Thus, the head 344 of the plunger actuator 340 is biased by the spring 350 into a position between the legs 314, 316 of the collapsible chamber 320 about medially between the chamber's proximal and distal ends, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. In this position, the head 344 prevents the opposing legs 314, 316 from collapsing toward each other. Thus, the chamber 320 is held in an “open” position.

[0115] With particular reference to FIGS. 15 AND 16, when the collapsible chamber 320 is held open by the plunger actuator head 344, the chamber outer threads 322 engage the inner threads 328 of the plunger guide 324. Thus, the plunger 290 can be linearly moved relative to the barrel 264 only by rotating the handle 330. When the handle 330 is rotated in the clockwise direction, the plunger 290 preferably moves toward the distal end 268 of the barrel 264, thus ejecting the contents of the barrel 264 and inflating an associated surgical balloon. When the plunger 290 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, the plunger 290 is preferably retracted into the barrel 264, thus deflating the balloon.

[0116] When the plunger actuator tab 346 is pushed, the plunger actuator 340 compresses the spring 350 and moves the head 344 out of supportive contact with the collapsible chamber legs 314, 316. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the chamber legs 314, 316 collapse toward each other and the chamber's outer threads 322 move out of engagement with the plunger guide inner threads 328. In this condition, the plunger 290 may be linearly moved relative to the barrel 264 by simply pushing or pulling the handle 330 in the same manner as conventional plungers.

[0117] In use, the syringe 260 is preferably first oriented in the open position and the plunger 290 is retracted as shown in FIG. 15. The hollow body 264 between the distal end 268 and the piston 300 is preferably filled with inflation fluid. The handle 330 is then rotated, thus advancing the plunger 290 and delivering the fluid in a regulated, pressure-controlled manner. When the fluid is fully delivered, the syringe 260 is in the position depicted in FIG. 16 and the surgical balloon is inflated

[0118] To quickly deflate the balloon, the plunger actuator 340 is depressed, allowing the chamber 320 to collapse as shown in FIG. 17. While the plunger actuator 340 remains depressed, the clinician pulls on the handle 330, slidably retracting the plunger 290 as shown in FIG. 18.

[0119]FIGS. 19 and 20 show a preferred embodiment of an integrated inflation/deflation syringe 260 a having a variable cross-section barrel 264 a. The syringe shares many similarities with the embodiment just discussed and shown in FIGS. 14-18. Thus, similar parts have been assigned the same numbers used above, but including the appellation “a.” The similar parts function in substantially the same manner as described above.

[0120] With reference to FIGS. 19 and 20, the variable cross-section barrel 264 a has a large diameter portion 265 and a small diameter portion 266. The large diameter portion 265 has a cross-section about the same as that of a standard 30-60 cc syringe. The small diameter portion 266 has a cross-section about the same as the low-volume syringe barrel 264 of FIGS. 14-18. The plunger 290 a is sized and adapted to slidably fit within the large diameter portion 265 and the piston 300 a is sized adapted to effect a seal with the inner surface of the barrel 264 a in the large diameter portion 265.

[0121] The inflation/deflation syringe 260 a is adapted to operate in the same manner as the syringe 260 described above and shown in FIGS. 14-18. Namely, a plunger actuator head 344 a supports a collapsible chamber 320 a to engage threads 322 a on a chamber outer surface with threads 328 a on a plunger guide 324 a inner surface. The plunger 290 a is thus advanced distally within the barrel 264 a by rotating a plunger handle 330. Indicia 267 marked on the outside surface of the small diameter section 266 allow the clinician to precisely gauge the volume of liquid delivered by the syringe 260 a and the rotational advancement facilitates slow, regulated fluid delivery despite the relatively large size of the barrel 264 a in the large diameter portion 265. When the plunger actuator 340 a is depressed, moving the head 344 a out of supporting contact with the chamber legs 314 a, 316 a, the chamber 320 a collapses. The threads 322 a, 328 a thus disengage and the piston 300 a is free to slide linearly within the barrel 264 a. Thus, the plunger 290 a may be pulled proximally, rapidly deflating an associated balloon. Because of the relatively large size of the large diameter barrel section 265, the syringe 260 a provides powerful evacuation force.

[0122] With next reference to FIGS. 21-27, another preferred embodiment of a precision syringe 360 having features in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. With first reference to FIG. 21, the syringe 360 includes a body 364 comprising an elongated hollow barrel 366, a lock body 368, and a correspondingly hollow plunger guide 370. A lumen 372 is defined extending through the hollow body 364 and is preferably circular and generally aligned with a longitudinal axis extending through the center of the body 364. The barrel 366 preferably has a capacity ranging between about 0.1 cc and about 10 cc, and more preferably a capacity between about 0.2 cc and about 2 cc, and has a distal end 378 with an attachment portion 380 which can be connected to various medical components such as a catheter. Referring particularly to FIGS. 22 and 23, the attachment portion 380, for example, may include a nose 382, an injection cap 384 and internal threads 386, but it will be understood that the attachment portion can include any other type of known connector to attach the syringe 360 to various types of medical components or instruments.

[0123] Referring again primarily to FIGS. 21-23, a proximal end 390 of the barrel 366 is attached to a distal side 392 of the lock body 368. A proximal side 394 of the lock body 368 is coupled to a distal end 396 of the plunger guide 370, which has a proximal end 398 with a flange or stop 400 formed thereon. The stop 400 includes a radially outwardly extending annular ridge. The ridge preferably extends outwardly about {fraction (1/16)} of an inch from the body 364 and the ridge preferably has a length of about ⅛ of an inch, but the ridge can have any desired dimensions and configuration.

[0124] The syringe 360 also includes a plunger 404 which is sized and dimensioned to be at least partially positioned within the hollow body 364. The plunger 404 includes an elongated shaft 406 which is generally circular in cross-section and is preferably constructed from material such as plastic, metal or composites. The plunger 404 is adapted to fit through the plunger guide 370 and into the barrel 366 and includes a distal end 408 which is positioned near the distal end 378 of the barrel, and a proximal end 410 which is positioned near the proximal end 398 of the plunger guide 370 as shown in FIGS. 21 and 23. The distal end 408 of the plunger 404 includes a piston 414 which is adapted to form a seal between the piston 414 and the inner surface of the barrel 366, as above. The plunger shaft 406 is threaded 416 from a point near the distal end 408 to a plunger stop 418. The stop 418 comprises an annular ridge extending outwardly about {fraction (1/16)} inch from the shaft. A guide ring 420 within the plunger guide 370 helps stabilize the plunger 404 within the guide. As shown in FIG. 19, the stop 418 on the plunger 404 contacts the plunger guide flange 400 to prevent further distal advancement of the plunger 404.

[0125] Referring again to FIG. 21, the proximal end 410 of the plunger 404 includes a handle 422 comprising a generally circular knob 424 with ridges 426 formed around the perimeter thereof to facilitate rotational grip by the clinician. The knob 424 preferably has a diameter of about 1 inch and a thickness of about ⅛ of an inch so that the clinician can easily grasp it, but the knob can be larger or smaller and it can have any desired shape such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0126] With further reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, the lock body 368 has a slot 430 which is adapted to receive a locker tab 432 therein. A hole 434 extends through the locker tab 432 and has an upper portion 436 and a lower portion 438. The radius of curvature of the upper portion 436 is larger than that of the lower portion 438, which is threaded 439 (see FIG. 21) to match the threads 416 on the plunger 404. A spring 440 such as a parabolic spring or coiled spring is disposed in the lock body slot 430 in contact with a curved leading edge 442 of the tab 432 and biases the locker tab 432 away from the spring 440. When the plunger 404 is inserted into the syringe body 364, the spring 440 biases the locker hole threads 439 into contact with the plunger threads 416, as shown in FIGS. 22-24. Thus, to advance or retract the plunger 404, the knob 424 must be rotated so that the plunger 404 is threaded into or out of the body 364. In this manner, precise volumes of liquid may be delivered out of the plunger barrel 366 in a regulated, relatively slow manner. Thus, build-up of excessive pressure in the occlusion system will be avoided because the plunger 404 will not be advanced too quickly down the barrel 366 when ejecting the barrel's contents.

[0127] When a back edge 444 of the locker tab 432 is depressed, as shown in FIGS. 25-27, the locker threads 439 are taken out of engagement with the plunger threads 416. The plunger 404 is thus free to be slidably moved without resistance from threads. Thus, the plunger knob 424 can be pushed or pulled to rapidly slide the plunger 404 within the barrel 366. This arrangement is especially desirable to enable quick deflation of an occlusion balloon.

[0128] The above preferred embodiment enables precise regulated injection of liquid when the plunger 404 is rotated, thus delivering the contents of the barrel 366 slowly and avoiding over pressurizing a connected occlusion system. However, when the lock tab 432 is depressed, the syringe 360 allows rapid deflation of the associated balloon.

[0129] FIGS. 28-32 show another preferred embodiment of a syringe 460 having features in accordance with the present invention. The syringe 460 is adapted to inflate an occlusion balloon by delivering precise volume of liquid in a regulated, low pressure manner that will not cause leaks in a system and also to deflate the occlusion balloon quickly.

[0130] With reference first to FIG. 28, the syringe 460 comprises a hollow body 464 with a barrel 466 extending from a distal end 468 of the body 464. The majority of the body 464 has a greater diameter than the barrel 466, which preferably has a capacity between about 0.1 cc and 10 cc, and more preferably between about 0.2 cc and 2 cc. The barrel 466 has a distal end 469 with an attachment portion 470 which can be connected to various medical components such as a catheter. The attachment portion 470 may include, for example, a nose 472, an injection cap, and internal threads, but it will be understood that the attachment portion can include any type of known connector to attach the syringe 460 to various types of medical components or instruments.

[0131] A plunger 480 is disposed within the body 464 and barrel 466 and comprises a shaft 482 with a piston 484 attached to a distal end thereof. The piston 484 is adapted to form a seal between the piston 484 and the inner surface of the barrel 466, as above. A shuttle 490 is attached to a proximal end 492 of the plunger shaft 482 and is slidably disposed within the main body 464. With further reference to FIG. 29, the shuttle 490 has a chamber 494 formed therewithin and an opening 496 to the chamber 494 is formed at a proximal end 498 of the shuttle 490. The chamber 494 is preferably substantially cylindrical and has a proximal neck portion 500 surrounding the opening 496 and having a diameter less than the diameter of the majority of the chamber 494.

[0132] Referring again to FIGS. 28-31, a plunger actuator 502 is provided which comprises a shaft 504 having a distal end 506 which is disposed in the shuttle chamber 494 and a proximal end 508 which extends out of a proximal end 510 of the body 464 and on which a handle 512 is formed. The handle 512 preferably comprises a generally circular disk 514 with a diameter of about ⅞ of an inch and a thickness of about ⅛ of an inch so that the clinician can easily grasp it. However, the disk can be larger or smaller and it can have any desired shape.

[0133] An annular stop ridge 518 is formed on the distal end 506 of the plunger actuator 502. The ridge 518 is sized and adapted to slide freely within the chamber 494, but has a diameter greater than that of the chamber neck 500 and will not fit through the opening 496. Therefore, the stop ridge 518 prevents the plunger actuator 502 from being completely removed from the shuttle chamber 494.

[0134] The proximal end 498 of the shuttle 490 has a flat surface on which a distal end 520 of a coil spring 522 rests. The spring 522 encircles the plunger actuator shaft 504 and extends proximally to a spring stop ridge 524 which protrudes annularly from the shaft 504.

[0135] Referring more particularly to FIGS. 28 and 30, the proximal end 510 of the body 464 has a flange 526 formed thereon. A hollow detent cylinder 530 extends longitudinally from the body flange 526. A cover 532 is disposed on a proximal end of the detent cylinder 530 and has an opening 536 formed therethrough. A detent mechanism 540 is disposed within the detent cylinder 530. With further reference to FIG. 32, the detent mechanism 540 preferably comprises opposing tabs 542, 543 linearly movable in a direction generally perpendicular to the body 464 and biased toward each other by springs 544, 545. A cavity 546, 547 is formed in each tab 542, 543, respectively, and is adapted to closely surround the plunger actuator shaft 504. With reference to FIGS. 28 and 30, a detent ridge 548 protrudes annularly from the plunger actuator shaft 504 between the spring stop 524 and the handle 512. A distal surface 550 of the detent ridge 548 is preferably sloped at about a 45° angle relative to the detent tabs 542, 543. The sloped distal surface 550 is adapted to deflect the detent tabs 542, 543 when the detent ridge 548 passes between them, thereby facilitating easy passage of the detent ridge 548 through the detent mechanism 540. A proximal surface 552 of the detent ridge 548 is also sloped, preferably at an angle relative to the detent tabs 542, 543 of about 15-40° and most preferably about 30°. The sloped proximal surface 552 is also adapted to deflect the tabs 542, 543 to facilitate passage of the detent ridge 548 through the detent mechanism 540, but due to the slope angle, significantly more force is required to move the detent ridge 548 proximally through the tabs than distally through the tabs.

[0136] This arrangement is particularly useful when operating the syringe 460. As shown in FIG. 30, when the disk 514 is pushed downward so that the detent ridge 548 passes through the detent mechanism 540, the spring 522 is compressed against the shuttle 490 and the distal end 506 of the plunger actuator 502 approaches a distal end 554 of the shuttle chamber 494. When compressed, the spring 522 exerts a reaction force F on the spring lock 524 and the shuttle 490. The spring 522 is adapted to not generate enough spring force F to push the detent ridge 548 proximally through the detent mechanism 540. Therefore, the spring force F instead tends to move the shuttle 490 in a distal direction, thus advancing the plunger 480 toward the barrel's distal end 469 until the contents of the barrel 466 are delivered and the spring 522 is relaxed, as shown in FIG. 31.

[0137] An advantage of the present embodiment is regulation of pressure build-up in the occlusion system. As discussed above, when liquid is injected too quickly into the system, pressure may build to very high levels and cause leaks in the system. The present embodiment allows a clinician to not worry about the rate of entry of liquid into the system. Instead, the clinician simply depresses the tab 514 until the detent ridge 548 is engaged with the detent mechanism 540. The spring 522 is thus compressed as shown in FIG. 30. As discussed above, the spring exerts force F to move the shuttle 490 and plunger 480 distally within the body 464, delivering the contents of the barrels 466 to the occlusion system. However, the spring 522 is chosen to have a spring constant adapted to exert a force less than the pressure that would cause a leak in the system. Thus, the spring 522 will inherently regulate system pressure during fluid delivery.

[0138] To deflate the occlusion balloon, the clinician pulls the plunger actuator 502 proximally, preferably moving the plunger 480 from the position depicted in FIG. 27 to the position shown in FIG. 25. The pulling force of the clinician is sufficient to move the detent ridge 548 through the detent mechanism 540 and the plunger actuator stop ridge 518 contacts the shuttle neck 500 so that the shuttle 490, and thus the plunger 480, moves proximally with the plunger actuator 502. Thus, the contents of the catheter are drawn into the barrel 466 and the balloon is deflated quickly

III. Inflation Syringe and Balloon Sizing System

[0139] To accommodate a variety of vessel sizes, various sizes of occlusion balloons are typically used. For example, balloon diameters of 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, and 6.0 mm are common. Balloons with diameters of 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm and 7.0 mm are also useful. Prior systems required different inflation devices to be used in combination with each of the balloon sizes. Further details are provided in the above-referenced copending application SYRINGE AND METHOD FOR INFLATING LOW VOLUME CATHETER BALLOONS. Improvements in balloon technology have resulted in at least one system in which a single balloon is suitable for use in a number of different vessel diameters. These improvements are disclosed in the above-referenced copending U.S. Application BALLOON CATHETER AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE.

[0140] A single syringe may be used to provide inflation fluid to the balloon. If desired, the syringe may be marked with indicia along its barrel to assist the physician during inflation of the balloon. The indicia are adapted to enable precise delivery of low volumes of fluid, but also versatile enough to enable accurate delivery of a range of volumes. For example, a 2.0 mm diameter balloon may be able to accommodate only about 0.01 cc of inflation fluid and a 7.0 mm balloon may require about 0.25 cc of fluid

IV. Syringe Assembly

[0141] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, an inflation syringe 60 is depicted used in an assembly 50 including a conventional high capacity or reservoir syringe 62. The reservoir syringe 62 provides the desirable power and volume for quickly priming the balloon 72 and guidewire 70, as well as for quickly deflating the balloon 72 for withdrawal from the patient. However, it will be noted that the inflation syringe 60 can be utilized in combination with other reservoir systems, of which the assembly 50 is only one example. Also, any of the preferred syringe embodiments disclosed above can be utilized in combination with such a reservoir syringe 62 or other reservoir systems.

[0142] An alternative syringe assembly is shown in FIG. 33, wherein a conventional four-way manifold 600 is attached to a reservoir syringe 602 and a y-connection 604 is attached to the proximal end of a catheter 610. The manifold 600 provides a pressure monitoring line 612, a dye supply line 614, a saline supply line 616, and a waste removal line 618. Proximal this first connection 604, another y-connection 620 couples a low volume syringe 630 with a guidewire 632 and, thus, with the manifold 600 and reservoir syringe 602. The syringe 630 is used to inflate the distal balloon 636 on guidewire 632. Although the use of a manifold 600 is typically reserved for procedures using larger or therapeutic balloons, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention is readily adapted for use with this more elaborate system.

[0143] As understood by those skilled in the art, the assembly in the present invention is not limited to the embodiments discussed herein, and may be included with other adapters, manifolds, and/or connectors, as desired. That is, advantages realized from the use of the low volume syringe with the higher volume syringe for deflation and inflation of a balloon during various procedures is not limited to their particular connections or additional apparatus.

[0144] Another preferred embodiment of a syringe assembly 650 for inflation and deflation of an occlusion balloon is shown in FIGS. 34-44. With first reference to FIG. 34, the syringe assembly 650 comprises a low-volume inflation syringe 660 and a high capacity or reservoir syringe 662 encased together in a housing 664. Like the syringe assembly 50 shown in FIG. 1, and as illustrated in FIG. 35, the syringe assembly 650 is preferably attached via a connector 666 and a short tube 668 to an adapter 54 within which a low profile catheter valve 66 and a balloon catheter 70 are engaged during use.

[0145]FIG. 36 illustrates the present syringe assembly 650 without its housing 664. As shown, the inflation and reservoir syringes 660, 662 are preferably oriented side-by-side and in communication with each other through a channel 680.

[0146] With continued reference to FIG. 36, the inflation syringe 660 preferably has a capacity ranging between about 0.02 cc and 2 cc. The syringe 660 includes a hollow barrel 682 having an open proximal end 684 and a distal end 686 with an attachment portion 688 which can be connected to various medical components, such as a catheter, in any known manner. A port 690 is formed through the side of the barrel 682 between the proximal 684 and distal 686 ends.

[0147] The syringe 660 also includes a plunger 692 longitudinally slidable within the barrel 682 and sized and dimensioned to be at least partially positioned within the barrel 682. The plunger 692 includes an elongate shaft 694 with a distal end 696 and a proximal end 698. A piston 699 is disposed on the distal end 696 and is adapted to form a seal between the piston 699 and the inner surface of the barrel 682. The proximal end 698 of the plunger shaft 694 is preferably attached to a gear rack 700 having a plurality of gear teeth or ridges 702 formed thereon. Preferably, the gear pitch is about 48 and the gear rack 700 is about ⅛″ thick. The gear rack 700 is preferably formed of modified molded nylon and alternatively could be formed of stainless steel.

[0148] The reservoir syringe 662 provides desirable power and volume for quickly priming the balloon and catheter. It is preferably of any conventional large volume syringe type with a capacity of between about 10-50 cc and more preferably about 40 cc. As shown in FIG. 36, the reservoir syringe 662 preferably has a generally cylindrical hollow barrel 710 having an open proximal end 712 and a tapered distal end 714. The tapered distal end 714 of the barrel 710 opens into the channel 680, which leads to the inflation syringe port 690.

[0149] The reservoir syringe 662 also includes a plunger 716 which is sized and dimensioned to be at least partially positioned within the hollow barrel 710. The plunger 716 includes an elongated shaft 718 which is generally circular in cross-section and is preferably constructed from material such as plastic or composites. A distal end 720 of the plunger shaft 718 includes a piston 722 which is adapted to form a seal between the piston 722 and the inner surface of the barrel 710. A handle 730 is formed at a proximal end 732 of the plunger 716. Preferably, the handle 730 is large, as illustrated in FIGS. 34-43, and is easily held in a clinician's hand.

[0150] With next reference to FIGS. 37-42, the housing 664 preferably comprises a right half 740 and a left half 742 attached by screws, bolts, a sonic weld, or other means. The housing 664 is adapted to fit around the syringe assembly 650. With particular reference to FIGS. 41 and 42, each housing half 740, 742 has a large cavity 744 and a small cavity 746 to accommodate the large and small syringe barrels 710, 682, respectively. Each housing half 740, 742 further includes a channel cavity 748 and gear rack cavity 750 to accommodate the channel 680 and gear rack 700, respectively. FIG. 43 depicts the syringe assembly 650 disposed in a housing half 740.

[0151] With reference again to FIGS. 37-42, a large window 752 is formed through each housing half to allow the clinician to view the contents of the large syringe barrel 710. Similarly, a cutout 754 is formed in each housing half to allow the clinician to view the contents of the inflation syringe barrel 682.

[0152] An inflation/deflation knob 760 is disposed on the outside of the housing 664. The inflation knob 760 is preferably formed of Delrin plastic but may also be preferably formed of metal or other plastics such as polycarbonate or ABS. With particular reference to FIGS. 43 and 44, the knob 760 is connected to a spur gear 762 having a pitch of about 48 and a pitch diameter of preferably about 0.292 inches. The spur gear 762 is adapted to engagingly mate the gear rack 700 attached to the inflation syringe 660. The teeth 764 of the spur gear 762, as shown in FIG. 44, communicate with the gear rack 700. Thus, when the knob 760 is rotated, the rotating spur gear 762 linearly moves the rack 700, thus advancing or retracting the plunger 692 within the inflation syringe barrel 682.

[0153] Referring again to FIG. 37, indicia 770 are preferably located on the housing 664 adjacent the knob 760 so that a clinician using the device can monitor the precise volume of liquid delivered by the inflation syringe 660. As depicted, the indicia 770 preferably comprise numbers corresponding to the size and shape of balloon used. When the knob 760 is rotated from the “DEFLATE” or “0” position to the number corresponding to the balloon in use, the syringe assembly 650 delivers the fluid volume associated with that balloon size. Alternatively, the indicia 770 could indicate the standard or metric volume of fluid delivered at each position.

[0154] To use the device, the inflation syringe plunger piston 699 is preferably first disposed immediately adjacent the proximal side of the port 690, as depicted in FIGS. 36 and 43. The knob 760 is positioned to correspond with the legend “DEFLATE” or “0” as indicated on the housing. The clinician connects the syringe assembly connector 666 to a source of balloon inflation fluid, preferably a diluted heparinized saline/contrast mixture, and retracts the large plunger 716 to fill the assembly 650 with 10-15 cc of fluid. Air is next purged from the syringe assembly 650 by holding the device vertically with the tip 686 pointing up and flushing air and air bubbles out by depressing the reservoir plunger 716. Excess fluid is flushed out, leaving about 5-10 cc of fluid.

[0155] The syringe assembly 650 is next connected to the occlusion catheter 70, preferably through an adapter 54 such as discussed above. The reservoir plunger 716 is then further retracted to prime the catheter. When priming, the reservoir plunger 716 is preferably held fully retracted for about 30 seconds until substantial all air within the catheter 70 has been aspirated. When the air is aspirated, the plunger 716 is slowly released to a neutral position.

[0156] When priming is complete and the surgical balloon is positioned as desired in the patient, the clinician rotates the knob 760 from the “DEFLATE” position to the desired setting corresponding to the balloon size and shape being used. Rotating the knob 760 moves the inflation syringe plunger 692 linearly towards the distal end 686 of the inflation syringe barrel 682, thus delivering inflation fluid to the balloon 72. To deflate the balloon, the knob 760 is rotated back to the “DEFLATE” position, thus linearly retracting the plunger 692 and drawing the inflation liquid back into the inflation syringe barrel 682.

[0157] With next reference to FIG. 45, an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a syringe assembly 800 is disclosed. Syringe assembly 800 is similar in construction and operation to the syringe assembly 650 just discussed. Since syringe assembly 800 shares many similarities with the above syringe assembly 650, similar parts share part numbers; however, parts associated with syringe assembly 800 include the appellation “a.”

[0158] Referring next to FIG. 46, a knob assembly 802 is disclosed for use with the syringe assembly 800. The knob assembly 802 includes a knob plate 804 with an access hole 806 formed therethrough and a detent ring 808 encircling the hole 806. Indicia 770 a are printed on the knob plate 804 adjacent the detent ring 808. At least two rods 810 depend from the knob 760 a and are adapted to extend through the hole 806. Referring back to FIG. 45, the right and left halves 740 a, 742 a of the syringe assembly housing 664 a each have a shallow cavity 812 formed in an upper portion. The cavity 812 is adapted to receive the knob plate 804 complementarily therewithin, as shown in FIGS. 47 and 48. Referring back to FIGS. 45 and 46, the rods 810 extend through the knob plate hole 806 to interact with a gear rack 700 a which is attached to an inflation plunger 692 a. As shown more particularly in FIGS. 45 and 49, the gear rack 700 a preferably comprises a series of channels 814 sized and adapted to accept the rods 810 therein. The channels 814 and rods 810 are further adapted so that when the knob 760 a is rotated, correspondingly moving the rods 810, the rods 810 move within the channels 814 and engage the channel walls 816 to advance or retract the attached inflation syringe plunger 692 a.

[0159] Referring back to FIG. 46, the knob 760 a has a detent hole (not shown) into which a spring 820 is placed. A ball 822 is placed in the hole with the spring 820. When the knob 760 a is installed into the knob plate 804, the ball 822 is urged into contact with the detent ring 808. Cavities 824 are formed in the detent ring 808, each cavity 824 adjacent to a corresponding indicia mark 770 a which, in turn, corresponds to a particular balloon size. Thus, as the knob 760 a is rotated to any delineated indicia location, the spring 820 forces the ball 822 into the accompanying cavity 824, effectuating a detent.

[0160] Referring back to FIG. 45, the syringe assembly 800 includes an inflation barrel 682 a having a relatively low volume, preferably between about 0.02 cc-1.0 cc. The inflation barrel 682 a preferably comprises a distal portion 828, medial portion 830, and proximal portion 832 mated together. Referring also to FIGS. 47 and 50, the medial portion 830 includes a port 690 a which connects to the channel 680 a between the reservoir syringe barrel 710 a and the inflation barrel 682 a. The distal portion 828 and proximal portion 832 each have a mating member 834 which fits complementarily into cavities formed in the medial portion 830, thus defining a continuous lumen 838 through the barrel 682 a.

[0161] Referring next to FIG. 49, the inflation plunger 692 a extending from the gear rack 700 a preferably comprises a substantially cylindrical precision-milled stainless steel rod. With reference also to FIG. 50, the barrel 682 a has a capacity ranging from between about 0.02 cc to 1.0 cc and most preferably between about 0.25 cc to 0.50 cc. The plunger 692 a is adapted to slide freely within the barrel 682 a. The medial portion 830 of the inflation barrel 682 a preferably includes a pair of O-ring seals 840, one disposed on either side of the port 690 a. The O-rings 840 are preferably sized to effect a seal with the inflation plunger 692 a. In operation, when the inflation plunger 692 a is advanced within the barrel 682 a through the O-ring seals 840, the plunger displaces fluid within the barrel lumen 838. The displaced fluid is forced out of the barrel 682 a through the distal end 686 a, and is thus delivered to an attached balloon catheter. Since delivery of fluid is determined by the volume displaced by the plunger 692 a, very small volumes may be precisely delivered without requiring the syringe barrel 682 a to have a very small inner diameter that would require expensive manufacturing.

[0162] Thus, certain advantages of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 47 and 50 are evident. In one aspect of this embodiment, the piston 834, as it is moved distally (or to the left in FIGS. 47 and 50) serves to seal the port 690 a, thereby shutting off any access to the volumetric capacity of the reservoir syringe barrel 710 a. In effect, then, this configuration eliminates the need or use of a stopcock which would typically be utilized in a two-separate-syringe embodiment. Accordingly, in this embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an automatic valve for communication with either the inflation barrel 682 a or the reservoir syringe barrel 710 a.

[0163] In another aspect of this embodiment, the inflation barrel 682 a is situated so as to be distally oriented with respect to the reservoir syringe barrel 710 a. This arrangement facilitates the automatic valve or sealing mechanism described in the previous paragraph, while still providing a long range of travel for the plunger 692 a of the reservoir syringe barrel 710 a.

[0164] Moreover, as best illustrated in FIG. 50, this longer range of travel, coupled with a minimized diameter of the plunger 692 a of the inflation barrel 682 a, provides for a very accurate syringe, in the sense that it is able to deliver very accurate and small volumes of fluid such as 0.05 cc, etc. This is achieved, in part, by fixing the O-ring seal 840, shown in FIG. 50, and allowing only the plunger 692 a to pass through the O-ring 840. This means that the pressure of the inflation barrel 682 a is determined by the diameter of the plunger and not by the entire outer diameter of the barrel 682 a. In other words, if the O-ring were to move with the plunger 692 a, the pressure, and therefore the volume of fluid delivered, would vary with the entire inner diameter of the inflation barrel 682 a. With a smaller diameter plunger and a fixed O-ring, the smaller cross-sectional surface area defined by the diameter of the plunger allows the plunger to travel a greater distance while still delivering a smaller, accurate volume of fluid. Accordingly, it is easier to manufacture and to hold tolerances relative to a plunger rather than the inner diameter of a barrel or syringe.

[0165] With reference next to FIG. 51, the reservoir syringe plunger 716 a preferably has a main body 842 with two substantially flat opposing surfaces 844 and two arcuate opposing surfaces 846. A cylindrical distal portion 848 extends from a distal end of the main body 842. The distal cylinder 848 has a diameter substantially equal to the distance between the opposing flat surface 844; the diametrical distance between the arcuate surfaces 846 is greater than the distal cylinder 848 diameter. Thus, a distal notch 850 is defined between each arcuate surface 846 and the distal cylinder 848 surface.

[0166] Referring next to FIGS. 45 and 46, the housing 664 a is adapted to complementarily receive the plunger main body 842. Specifically, the housing 664 a has flat sides 852 which are complementary to the flat surfaces 844 of the main body, and arcuate sides 854 which complement the arcuate surfaces 846 of the plunger. This construction allows the plunger 746 a to slide within the housing 664 a, but not to rotate. A lock notch 856 is formed at the proximal end of the housing 664 a. When the plunger 716 a is retracted from the reservoir barrel 710 a so that the plunger distal notch 850 is proximal the housing lock notch 856, the plunger main body 842 is free of the housing and the plunger may be rotated. When the plunger 716 a is rotated about one-quarter turn, the plunger notch 850 will engage the housing lock notch 856, preventing the plunger 716 a from advancing within the reservoir barrel 710 a. Such a plunger lock is most useful during priming of the system and when deflating the balloon.

[0167] The syringe assembly 800 is preferably operated in conjunction with an inflation adapter 54 and balloon catheter 70 in a manner similar to the syringe assembly 650 discussed above. Once the balloon is inflated, the adapter is preferably actuated to close the catheter valve 66, thus maintaining balloon inflation. To deflate the balloon, the knob 760 a is preferably rotated back to the “0” position, retracting the plunger 716 a within the inflation barrel 682 a, prior to opening the catheter valve 66. Once the catheter valve 66 is open, the reservoir plunger 716 a is retracted to deflate the balloon. When fully retracted, the reservoir plunger 716 a is rotated a quarter turn to engage the plunger distal notch 850 and housing lock notch 856 in order to lock the reservoir plunger 716 a into place and correspondingly ensure the balloon and catheter remain deflated

V. Alternative Uses for the Dual Syringe System

[0168] In addition to providing a highly responsive inflation system for an occlusion balloon, the dual syringe system also has a variety of other uses. For instance, the system could be used to deliver precise amounts of therapeutic drugs or medicine to the patient. The system may also be used for irrigation or aspiration. Additionally, the system can be used to infuse whole blood as is described below.

[0169] Typically, whole blood is infused into patients with roller type pumps. One problem associated with this type of pump is that roller mechanisms apply a shear stress that often damages the blood cells with the crushing force of the rollers. The dual syringe system could overcome the problem of damaging the blood by providing a hydrostatic pressure that would provide pressure for the transfusion without causing the damaging forces on the cells. The blood cells, because of their circular shape, can withstand great hydrostatic pressure and therefore would not be damaged. Preferably, the large volume syringe will be used to infuse blood.

[0170] A low volume syringe or syringe assembly having features in accordance with the present invention is not limited to use only with the inflation adapter as presented herein. Other arrangements or assemblies may include syringe embodiments of the present invention. Similarly, the method of the present invention may omit the use of an inflation adapter without loss of benefit from the present invention.

VI. Method for Prevention of Distal Embolization

[0171] Described below is an improved method for preventing distal embolization during removal of plaque, thrombi or other occlusions from a blood vessel. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is adapted for use in the treatment of a stenosis or an occlusion in a blood vessel in which the stenosis or occlusion has a length and a width or thickness which at least partially occludes the vessel's lumen. Thus, the method is effective in treating both partial and complete occlusions of the blood vessels. It is to be understood that “occlusion” as used herein includes both complete and partial occlusions, stenoses, emboli, thrombi, plaque and any other substance which at least partially occludes the lumen of the blood vessel.

[0172] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, aspiration is performed while advancing a guidewire across the site of the occlusion in a proximal to distal direction to prevent distal embolization. An aspiration catheter is delivered over the guidewire to a site just proximal to the site of the occlusion, and, while aspirating, the occlusion in the vessel is crossed with both the guidewire and the catheter in a proximal to distal direction. In a preferred embodiment, the distal tip of the aspiration catheter is no more than 2 cm, more preferably no more than 0.5-1 cm, behind or proximal to the distal tip of the guidewire during crossing. The distal end of the aspiration catheter is then moved in a distal to proximal direction across the occlusion, while continuously aspirating. This process ensures the removal of any particles which may be created during the delivery of the guidewire to a position distal to at least a portion of the occlusion. Aspiration from proximal to distal, and distal to proximal, can be repeated as many times as necessary to completely aspirate all particles. These steps are all performed prior to occlusion of the vessel at a site distal to the occlusion and treatment of the occlusion. It should be noted that, as used herein, “proximal” refers to the portion of the apparatus closest to the end which remains outside the patient's body, and “distal” refers to the portion closest to the end inserted into the patient's body.

[0173] The aspiration method disclosed herein can be used in any vessel of the body where the pressure is at least 0.2 psi at any time during the diastolic/systolic cycle of the heart, and, preferably, is about 1.2 psi, and is capable of providing a flow rate of at least 5 cc/minute when not occluded. Thus, although the pressure within any vessel may fall below 0.2 psi during relaxation between heartbeats, so long as the pressure created by the heartbeat rises to at least 0.2 psi, the pressure within the vessel will be sufficient.

[0174] The present method is particularly suited for use in removal of occlusions from saphenous vein grafts, coronary and carotid arteries, and vessels having similar pressures and flow.

[0175] In a preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, a guide catheter is first introduced into the patient's vasculature through an incision made in the femoral artery in the groin and is used to guide the insertion of other catheters and devices to the desired site, as described above. A guidewire is then advanced until its distal end reaches a site proximal to the occlusion. Fluoroscopy is typically used to guide the guidewire and other devices to the desired location within the patient. The devices are frequently marked with radiopaque markings to facilitate visualization of the insertion and positioning of the devices within the patient's vasculature. It should be noted that at this point, blood is flowing through the vessel in a proximal to distal direction.

[0176] In contrast to previous methods, in one embodiment the guidewire does not cross the occlusion prior to aspiration with an aspiration catheter or other suitable catheter which can provide aspiration pressure. Instead, an aspiration catheter is inserted over the guidewire and the two are simultaneously or concomitantly moved past the occlusion, proximal to distal, while aspirating, to prevent material which dislodges or breaks off the occlusion from entering the vasculature and producing distal emboli. The method is illustrated in FIGS. 52 and 53 and described in detail below. After crossing of the occlusion by the aspiration catheter and guidewire while aspirating, the aspiration catheter is moved in a distal to proximal direction, also while aspirating. The aspiration catheter is then removed, and therapy performed on the occlusion.

[0177] A guidewire having an occlusive device on its distal end is preferably used in the present method. The method can be effectively carried out, however, using a number of guidewires or catheters that perform the function of occluding the vessel and allowing for the slidable insertion of various other catheters and devices. For example, a guidewire having an expandable device such as an inflatable balloon, filter, expandable braid or other mechanical occlusive device attached at its distal end can be used. The expandable occlusive device should be capable of preventing the migration of particles and debris from the working area, either through total or partial occlusion of the vessel. The occlusion of the vessel need not be complete. Substantial occlusion of the vessel can be sufficient for purposes of the present method.

[0178] As the guidewire and aspiration catheter cross the occlusion, blood enters the vessel and keeps any particles dislodged during the procedure from flowing in a distal to proximal direction. In addition, the blood pressure and flow provides the irrigation necessary for aspiration. As noted above, the blood pressure in the vessel is preferably at least about 0.2 psi, and the vessel is capable of providing a flow rate of at least about 5 cc per minute when not occluded.

[0179] After the distal end of the guidewire having an occlusive device is delivered past the site of the occlusion and aspiration is complete, the occlusive device is activated, occluding the vessel at a site distal to the site of the occlusion. Once the blood vessel is occluded, therapy can be performed to remove or reduce the occlusion. A therapy catheter can be used if desired. The therapy catheter can be any of a number of devices, including a balloon catheter used to perform angioplasty, a catheter which delivers a stent, a catheter for delivering enzymes, chemicals, or drugs to dissolve and treat the occlusion, an atherectomy device, or a laser or ultrasound device used to ablate the occlusion. Alternatively, the therapy catheter can be eliminated and use of the guide catheter or the aspiration catheter alone can be used to aspirate the occlusion. This method is especially useful to remove emboli from the coronary arteries following acute myocardial infarction, because the aspiration catheter can be made small enough to enter the coronary arteries.

[0180] Once the desired therapy is performed, the therapy catheter is withdrawn from the patient's body and the aspiration catheter can once again be delivered over the guidewire. The aspiration catheter can ride over the guidewire with the guidewire inserted through the aspiration lumen of the catheter. Alternatively, a single operator type aspiration catheter can be used, in which only a portion of the aspiration catheter rides over the guidewire, which is inserted into a separate guidewire lumen.

[0181] The method of the invention shown in FIG. 52 can be used especially following myocardial infarction, for totally occluded vessels and partially occluded vessels defined by TIMI 0-1 flow, and having no major side branch. However, the method of FIG. 52 is not intended to be limited only to such applications, and may also be used for vessels having blood flow through side branches. TIMI stands for “thrombolysis in myocardial infarction.” This value is measured angiographically by injecting a dye and noting the time it takes to clear through the blood vessel. A TIMI of 3 means that the vessel is open. A TIMI of 0 means that the vessel is totally occluded. In a totally occluded vessel, one cannot visualize past the site of the occlusion because the dye will not flow past the occlusion. Because the site cannot be visualized, a distal occlusive device generally cannot be used.

[0182] Referring to FIGS. 52A-H, a guidewire 900 is inserted into the blood vessel 902 until the distal tip is just proximal to occlusion 904 (FIG. 52A). An aspiration catheter 906 is delivered over the guidewire 900 so that the distal end of the guidewire 900 and the distal end of the aspiration catheter 906 are just proximal to the occlusion 904 (FIG. 52B). Aspiration is performed while crossing or advancing past the occlusion 904 with the distal end of the guidewire 900, in a proximal to distal direction (FIG. 52C). In other words, both the aspiration catheter 906 and the guidewire 900 are moved in a proximal to distal direction across the occlusion 904 while aspirating through the distal end of the aspiration catheter. Aspirating while crossing in this manner thus removes any particles that may be broken off due to crossing of the occlusion. The distal end of the aspiration catheter 906 is then moved back in a distal to proximal direction while aspirating (FIG. 52D) to further remove particles. Blood flow into the aspiration catheter 906 is indicated by the arrows. The proximal to distal, then distal to proximal, aspiration may be repeated one or more times if desired to ensure removal of emboli or particles formed during movement of the devices across the occlusion 904. After aspiration, TIMI flow may be determined.

[0183] The aspiration catheter 906 is then removed and the guidewire 900 is then exchanged for a guidewire 907 having an occlusive device on its distal end 908 (e.g., GUARDWIRE, PercuSurge, Sunnyvale, Calif.) (FIG. 52E). Further details of an exchange catheter are described in assignee's copending application entitled EXCHANGE CATHETER AND METHOD OF USE, application Ser. No. 09/026,464, filed Feb. 19, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,159,195, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Alternatively, the aspiration catheter may remain in place for delivery of guidewire 907 to aspirate any additional particles that may break free of occlusion 904 while the guidewire 907 crosses the occlusion, such as described with respect to FIG. 53 below. In this embodiment, the aspiration catheter itself may be used as an exchange catheter. The occlusive device 908, such as a balloon, at the end of the guidewire 907 is advanced to a site just distal the site of the occlusion 904, and the occlusive device 908 is activated to prevent downstream migration of particles and debris (FIG. 52F). Therapy can then be performed on the occlusion 904, if desired. For example, an angioplasty catheter 910 can be delivered to the occlusion 904 and the balloon inflated to open the vessel (FIG. 52G). Stenting therapy may also be used. After therapy, the aspiration catheter 906 can be reintroduced to the site to perform further aspiration of particles and debris created during therapy (FIG. 52H). This aspiration may occur in a similar manner as described above, with the distal end of the aspiration catheter moving in a proximal to distal direction across the occlusion 904 while aspirating, and then in a distal to proximal direction across the occlusion 904. After aspiration, the occlusive device is deactivated. If desired, TIMI flow is again determined after therapy and aspiration.

[0184] Referring now to FIGS. 53A-G, the second preferred method of the invention is used especially for partially occluded vessels, defined by TIMI flow of 1-2, having no major side branch. However, as above, the method of FIGS. 53A-G is not intended to be limited only to such applications. A guidewire 907 with an occlusive device such as a balloon at its distal end 908 is inserted into the vessel 902 to a location just proximal to the occlusion 904 (FIG. 53A). An aspiration catheter 906 is delivered over the guidewire 908 so that the distal ends of the guidewire 908 and aspiration catheter 906 are both just proximal to the occlusion 904 (FIG. 53B). Aspiration is performed while crossing or advancing past the occlusion 904 with the distal ends of the guidewire 908 and aspiration catheter 906, in a proximal to distal direction (FIG. 53C). Then the distal end of the aspiration catheter 906 is moved back in a distal to proximal direction while aspirating (FIG. 53D). Blood flow into the aspiration catheter 906 is indicated by the arrows. The proximal to distal, then distal to proximal aspiration may be repeated one or more times if desired. After aspiration, TIMI flow may be determined.

[0185] The occlusive device on the guidewire 908 is then activated to prevent downstream migration of particles and debris (FIG. 53E). The aspiration catheter is preferably removed prior to activation of the occlusive device. Therapy can now be safely performed on the occlusion 904, if desired. For example, an angioplasty catheter 910 can be delivered to the occlusion 904 over the guidewire and the balloon inflated to open the vessel (FIGS. 53F-G). Stenting therapy may also be used. The aspiration catheter 906 is then reintroduced to the site to perform further aspiration of particles and debris created during therapy (FIG. 53G). Aspiration preferably occurs with the distal end of the aspiration catheter moving in a proximal to distal direction across the occlusion 904 while aspirating, and then in a distal to proximal direction across the occlusion 904. After aspiration, the occlusive device is deactivated. If desired, TIMI flow after aspiration may be determined.

[0186] FIGS. 54A-F illustrate another embodiment in which a guidewire 907 with an occlusive device 908 is delivered to a location distal to an occlusion 904. As shown in FIG. 54A, the occlusion 904 is first crossed with the occlusive device 908, which is preferably a balloon, such that the occlusive device 908 is distal to the occlusion 904. An aspiration catheter 906 is preferably delivered over the guidewire 907 until the distal end of the aspiration catheter is proximal to the occlusion 904 (FIG. 54B). As shown in FIG. 54C, the balloon 908 is then inflated, and aspiration begins through the distal end of the aspiration catheter. Aspiration continues while the distal end of the aspiration catheter moves in a proximal to distal direction across the occlusion 904 (FIG. 54D). The distal end of the aspiration catheter 906 is then moved back in a distal to proximal direction while aspirating (FIG. 54E) to further remove particles. Blood flow into the aspiration catheter 906 is indicated by the arrows. The proximal to distal, then distal to proximal, aspiration may be repeated one or more times if desired to ensure removal of emboli or particles formed during movement of the devices across the occlusion 904.

[0187] The balloon 908 is then preferably deflated (FIG. 54F), and TIMI flow may be determined. Alternatively, the balloon 908 may remain inflated throughout the procedure. The aspiration catheter is preferably removed from the guidewire 907, and therapy is performed, such as with a therapy catheter 906 described with respect to FIGS. 53E-G above.

[0188] In general, the catheter apparatus of the present invention is for treatment of a stenosis in a lumen in a blood carrying vessel in which the stenosis has a length and a width or thickness which at least partially occludes the lumen in the vessel. In another embodiment, the apparatus is comprised of a first flexible elongate tubular member having proximal and distal extremities. A first inflatable elastic balloon is coaxially mounted on the distal extremity of the first tubular member. The first tubular member has therein a centrally disposed lumen, a balloon inflation lumen in communication with the interior of the first inflatable balloon and an aspiration lumen exiting through the distal extremity. A second flexible elongate tubular member is provided which extends through the centrally disposed lumen of the first tubular member and has proximal and distal extremities. A second inflatable balloon is coaxially mounted on the distal extremity of the second tubular member. The second tubular member has a balloon inflation lumen therein in communication with the interior of the second balloon. The second tubular member is also provided with a guide wire and/or fluid flow lumen for or blood. Means is carried by the proximal extremity of the first and second tubular members permitting advancement of the first balloon into position proximal of the occlusion in the vessel and for inflating the same and for creating suction on the aspiration lumen to aspirate the space in the vessel distal of the first balloon and thereafter permitting placement of the second balloon distal of the occlusion and inflation of the second balloon to create a working space between the first and second balloons and for shunting arterial blood from the arterial blood flow lumen into the vessel distal of the second balloon. A third flexible elongate tubular member is provided which extends through the centrally disposed lumen of the first tubular member and has a lumen therein through which the second tubular member extends. Means is carried by the distal extremity of the third tubular member for performing a medical procedure in the working space created between the first and second balloons which brackets the stenosis.

[0189] More particularly as shown in FIGS. 54-58 of the drawings, the catheter apparatus 1011 of the present invention which is for use in the treatment of a stenosis 1012 in a lumen 1013 in a blood-carrying vessel 1014 in which the stenosis 1012 has a length and a width or thickness which at least partially occludes the lumen 1013. The apparatus consists of a first elongate flexible tubular member 1016 formed of a suitable plastic material which is provided with proximal and distal extremities 1017 and 1018. A first balloon 1019 is mounted on the distal extremity 1018 and preferably is a compliant balloon formed of a suitable elastic material such as a latex or a very low radiation polyethylene so that it can be inflated to the size of the vessel 1012 in which it is to be disposed. Thus, the balloon 1019 should be capable of expanding to various diameters depending on the size of the vessel. The first balloon 1019 can be formed as a separate balloon separate from the elongate tubular member 1016 as shown and adhered thereto by suitable means such as an adhesive (not shown), or it can be formed integral with the tubular member 16 in a manner well known to those skilled in the art.

[0190] The tubular member 1016 is provided with a large centrally disposed or main lumen 1021 extending from the proximal extremity 1017 to the distal extremity 1018. It is also provided with a balloon inflation lumen 1022 which has a distal extremity in communication with the interior of the first balloon 1019 through a port 1023. The proximal extremity of the balloon inflation lumen 1022 is in communication with a balloon inflation fitting 1024 mounted on the proximal extremity 1013 of the tubular member 1012. The fitting 1024 can be of a conventional type as for example a Luer-type fitting which is adapted to be connected to a balloon inflation device (not shown) for inflating and deflating the first balloon 1019.

[0191] The first tubular member 1016 is also provided with an aspiration lumen 1026 which exits through the distal extremity 1013 and the proximal extremity 1014 of the tubular member 1012. A Luer-type fitting 1027 is mounted on the proximal extremity 1014 and is in communication with the aspiration lumen 1026. The fitting 1027 is adapted to be connected to a suitable aspiration or suction source (not shown) of a conventional type for aspiration purposes as hereinafter described.

[0192] The catheter assembly or apparatus 1011 also consists of a second elongate flexible tubular member 1031 having proximal and distal extremities 1032 and 1033. A second inflatable balloon 1036 of the same type as the first inflatable balloon is coaxially mounted on the distal extremity 1033 in a conventional manner. The tubular member 1031 is provided with a large generally centrally disposed arterial blood flow lumen 1037 which opens through the distal extremity 1033 and is in communication with a Luer-type fitting 1038 which as hereinafter described is adapted to be connected to a supply of arterial blood from the patient which for example can be taken from another femoral artery of the patient by the use of a blood pump.

[0193] The second tubular member 1031 is also provided with a balloon inflation lumen 1039 which is in communication with the interior of the second inflatable balloon 1036 through a port 1041. The proximal extremity of the lumen 1039 is in communication with the Luer-type fitting 1042 mounted on the proximal extremity 1032 of the second tubular member 1031 and as with the balloon inflation fitting 1024 is adapted to be connected to a balloon inflation deflation device (not shown) of a conventional type. The second tubular member 1031 is also provided with a lumen 1043 which also can be used as a guide wire and/or for introducing a saline solution extending from the proximal extremity to the distal extremity. The lumen 1043 is sized so that it is adapted to receive a conventional guide wire 1046 as for example a 0.014″ or 0.018″ guide wire and extends from the proximal extremity to the distal extremity so that the guide wire 1046 can extend beyond the distal extremity of the second tubular member 1031. A fitting 1047 is provided on the proximal extremity 1032 in communication with the lumen 1043 for introducing the saline solution.

[0194] As shown in FIG. 55, the second tubular member 1031 is disposed within the central lumen 1021 of the first tubular member 1012 and is slidably and coaxially mounted therein for displacement of the second balloon 1036 with respect to the first balloon 1019 as hereinafter described.

[0195] The catheter assembly or apparatus 1011 also consists of a third elongate flexible tubular member 1051 having proximal and distal extremities 1052 and 1053. It is provided with a centrally disposed lumen 1056 extending from the proximal extremity 1052 to the distal extremity 1053 and through which the second tubular member 1031 is coaxially and slidably mounted.

[0196] Means 1057 is provided on the distal extremity 1053 of the third tubular member 1051 for performing a medical procedure. In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 55, this means 1057 consists of a third balloon 1058 which can be noncompliant coaxially mounted on the distal extremity of the third tubular member 1051. The third balloon 1058 can be attached in the same manner as the first and second balloons 1019 and 1036 hereinbefore described. The third tubular member 1051 is provided with a balloon inflation lumen 1059 which has its distal extremity in communication with the interior of the balloon 1058 through a port 1061. The proximal extremity of the balloon inflation 1059 is in communication with a Luer-type fitting 1062 provided on the proximal extremity 1052 and adapted to be connected to a conventional inflation deflation device (not shown) for inflating and deflating the third balloon 1058.

[0197] The operation and use of the catheter assembly or apparatus 1011 in the method of the present invention for treating occluded vessels may now be briefly described in connection with an occlusion formed by a stenosis in a vessel not having a bifurcation therein as for example in saphenous graft or in one of the right and left carotid arteries, also called internal and external carotid arteries, of a patient in connection with the illustrations shown in FIGS. 59 and 60A-60E. A guiding catheter 1063 (FIG. 59) of a conventional type is inserted into an incision into a femoral artery of a patient and is advanced through that artery into the aorta 1064 of the heart 1065 of the patient and into the ostium 1066 of the selected carotid artery or vessel as for example the left carotid 1067. As is well known to those skilled in the art of anatomy, the left carotid 1067 is provided with a bifurcation 1068 which leads to internal and external carotids 1071 and 1072. A right carotid 1073 is provided which also extends into a bifurcation (not shown) and internal and external carotids (not shown).

[0198] After the guiding catheter has been appropriately positioned, the guide wire 1046 is introduced separately into the guiding catheter or along with the catheter assembly 1011. The distal extremity of the catheter apparatus or assembly 1011 with all of the first, second and third balloons 1019, 1036 and 1058 completely deflated, is introduced into the guiding catheter 1063 along with or over the guide wire 1046 and is advanced through the guiding catheter 1063 into the ostium 1066 of the carotid artery or vessel 1067 and into the lumen or passageway 1068 of the vessel as shown in FIGS. 59 and 60B.

[0199] The distal extremity of the catheter assembly 1011 is advanced until it is just proximal of a stenosis 1076 in the carotid artery 1067 to be treated. The balloon 1019 is then inflated by introducing a suitable inflation medium such as a radiopaque liquid into the fitting 1024 to cause it to pass through the balloon inflation lumen 1022 through the port 1023 and into the interior of the first balloon 1019 to inflate the same as shown in FIG. 60A. The balloon 1019 is progressively inflated until it engages the side wall of the vessel 1067 to occlude the vessel 1067. At the time that this is occurring, a negative pressure or suction is applied to the aspiration fitting 1027 to supply a negative pressure through the aspiration lumen 1026 to suck or aspirate blood in the vessel 1067 distal of the first balloon 1019 into the lumen and out the aspiration port 1062 to thereby reverse the flow of blood through the stenosis as shown by the arrows 1077 in FIG. 60B.

[0200] While a reverse flow of blood is occurring in the vessel 1067, the guide wire 1046 is advanced through the stenosis 1076 as shown in FIG. 60C. In the event that any pieces or particles of plaque are knocked off of the occlusion formed by the stenosis 1076 by movement of the guide wire 1046 through the same, such pieces of plaque or emboli will be drawn out with the reverse flow of blood into the aspiration lumen 1026 and out of the aspiration fitting 1027. During the time that the guide wire 1046 is being advanced through the stenosis 1076 it may be desirable at the same time to introduce a saline solution through the guide wire lumen 1043 of the second elongate flexible tubular member 1031 to exit through the distal extremity of the second elongate flexible tubular member 1031 into the space immediately proximal of the stenosis 1076. This introduced saline solution aids the flow of particulate or other particles dislodged from the stenosis 1076 during advancement of the guide wire 1046 through the same and carries them back with the mixed saline blood solution through the aspiration lumen 1026 in a manner hereinbefore described.

[0201] With the guide wire 1046 remaining in position, the second elongate flexible tubular member 1031 with the second balloon 1036 thereon in a deflated condition is advanced over the guide wire 1046 through the stenosis 1076 until -the second balloon 1036 is distal of the stenosis 1076 as shown in FIG. 60D after which the second balloon 1036 is inflated by introducing an inflation medium as for example a radiopaque liquid through the inflation fitting 1042 into the lumen 1039 through the port 1041 to the interior of the second balloon 1036 to inflate the second balloon 1036 until it engages the sidewall of the vessel 1067.

[0202] Prior to, during or after inflation of the second balloon 1036, the guide wire 1046 can be removed. However, it is preferable to remove the guide wire 1046 as soon as the second balloon 1036 has been advanced so that it is beyond the stenosis 1076. At this time, and certainly prior to complete inflation of the second balloon 1036, blood is shunted across the stenosis 1076 and into the lumen 1068 distal of the second balloon 1036 by introducing blood through the fitting 1038 and into the centrally disposed blood flow lumen 1037 in the second tubular member 1031 so that it exits out the central lumen 1037 distal of the second balloon 1036. The blood which is supplied to the fitting 1037 can be taken from another femoral artery of the patient and pumped into the fitting 1038. In addition, if desired, the blood which is aspirated in the space distal of the first balloon 1019 can be appropriately filtered and also supplied to the fitting 1038. By shunting blood past the stenosis 1069 in this manner it can be seen that blood is being continuously supplied to the carotid artery of the patient during the time that the second balloon 1036 is inflated and occludes the lumen 1068 in the vessel 1067.

[0203] As soon as the second balloon 1036 has been inflated, it can be seen that there is provided a working space 1078 (FIG. 60D) between the first and second balloons 1019 and 1036 so that medical procedures can be undertaken to remove or reduce the stenosis 1076 in the space between the first and second balloons 1019 and 1036.

[0204] Assuming that it is desired to compress the plaque or material forming the stenosis 1076 to provide a larger lumen,-opening or passageway through the stenosis 1076, the third tubular member 1051 can be advanced by grasping the proximal extremity 1052 to cause the distal extremity with the third balloon 1058 thereon to be advanced into the space 1078. As soon as the balloon 1058 has been properly positioned within the stenosis 1076, the balloon 1058 also can be inflated with a suitable inflation medium as for example a radiopaque liquid. The balloon 1058 can be inflated to the desired pressure to cause compression of the plaque of the occlusion against the sidewall of the vessel 1067 by the application of appropriate pressure. As in conventional angioplasty procedures, the third balloon 1058 can be formed of a non-elastic relatively non-compliant material so that high pressures as for example 10-15 atmospheres can be used within the balloon to apply compressive forces to the vessel without danger of rupturing the vessel. It should be appreciated that the non-elastic capabilities can also be achieved by a composite elastic material.

[0205] Since the blood flow has been restored to the vessel 1067 by the shunt hereinbefore described, the compression of the occlusion forming the stenosis 1076 can be carried out for an extended period of time, as for example after a few minutes, if desired to help ensure that a large lumen or passageway is formed through the stenosis 1076 as shown in FIG. 60E. If it is believed that the occlusion forming the stenosis 1069 has been sufficiently compressed, the third balloon 1058 can be deflated. In the event an inelastic balloon is utilized for the third balloon 1058, and it is desired to utilize a larger third balloon, this can be accomplished by removing the third tubular member 1051 with the deflated balloon 1058 thereon and introducing a third tubular member 1051 having a larger size balloon thereon over the second tubular member 1031 and advancing it into the stenosis 1076 and inflating the larger size balloon to create a still larger passage through the stenosis 1076.

[0206] After the appropriate dilation the stenosis 1076 has been accomplished the third balloon can be removed from the stenosis while aspiration of the space 1078 is still ongoing so that any plaque coming off the occlusion forming the stenosis 1076 can be aspirated out of the vessel. After the third balloon 1058 has been removed from the stenosis, the second balloon 1036 and the first balloon 1019 can be deflated to permit normal blood flow through the vessel 1061 after which the arterial blood flow supply to the fitting 1038 can be terminated. The entire catheter assembly 1011 can then be removed from the guiding catheter 1063 after which the guiding catheter 1063 can be removed and a suture applied to the incision created to obtain access to the femoral artery.

[0207] Further details regarding aspiration and other methods and apparatus for treating occluded vessels are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,833,650, and 6,135,991 the entirety of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0208] The embodiments of the apparatus and method as described above are provided merely to illustrate the present invention. Changes and modifications may be made from the embodiments presented herein by those skilled in the art without departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for the treatment of an occlusion in a blood vessel, comprising: prior to performing treatment on the occlusion, crossing the occlusion with a guidewire while aspirating blood, so that blood flows past the occlusion; and treating the occlusion.
 2. The method of claim 1, comprising aspirating while crossing said occlusion with the guidewire in a proximal to distal direction.
 3. A method for treating a stenosis in a vessel, comprising: delivering a guidewire and a first catheter having a proximal end and a distal end into the vessel to a location near the stenosis, wherein when the first catheter and guidewire are both delivered, the guidewire extends through a lumen of the first catheter and the distal end of the first catheter is located proximal to the stenosis; aspirating particles through the lumen of the first catheter; after aspirating, delivering a therapy catheter to a location near the stenosis; and performing treatment on the stenosis using the therapy catheter.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first catheter is an aspiration catheter.
 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising activating an occlusive device on the distal end of the aspiration catheter proximal to the occlusion.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the occlusive device is a balloon.
 7. The method of claim 3, wherein the therapy catheter is delivered through the first catheter.
 8. The method of claim 3, wherein the therapy catheter includes a balloon disposed at a distal end thereof.
 9. The method of claim 3, wherein the therapy catheter is an atherectomy catheter.
 10. The method of claim 3, wherein the therapy catheter is a stent deploying catheter.
 11. The method of claim 3, further comprising delivering the guidewire until a distal end thereof is distal to the stenosis.
 12. The method of claim 3, wherein the first catheter is delivered over the guidewire.
 13. The method of claim 3, wherein the first catheter is delivered along with the guidewire.
 14. The method of claim 3, further comprising, prior to performing said treatment, deploying an occlusive device distal to the stenosis.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the occlusive device is a balloon.
 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising removing the guidewire from the vessel prior to deploying the occlusive device.
 17. The method of claim 14, wherein the occlusive device is provided on a second catheter delivered through the first catheter.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the second catheter is delivered over the guidewire.
 19. The method of claim 3, wherein the vessel is a carotid artery. 